How to Compare the Speeds of High Speed Internet

Get more done with the right Internet plan.

High-Speed Internet access is now readily available to a wide consumer base, using a variety of network technologies. Access through cable or phone lines called DSL, or digital subscriber line (not to be confused with dial-up), has been around since the technology was first introduced. Recently, fiber-optic service (FIOS), and satellite-based connections have appeared, offering better speeds and a greater number of connectivity options. This broadband service brings the world of rich, online content and streaming media to high-speed Internet subscribers. Internet service providers (ISPs) offer high-speed access at several different tiers or levels of service. Each one has a unique data throughput speed, and is designed for a specific type of user.

Things You'll Need

• High-Speed Internet information pamphlet. (for any providers servicing your area)

Instructions

1. Check the download speeds (usually expressed in Mbps or Mega-bits per second) that your local ISP offers. This is the most important number for most users, as it determines your maximum download speed. Packages typically range from 512 Kbps to 25 Mbps, with 50 Mbps possible on fiber-optic based networks. While ground based platforms deliver relatively consistent speeds, satellite subscribers may experience degraded performance due to fluctuating weather conditions. Users with basic needs such as surfing, email, and a few occasional downloads or short streaming videos, will be fine with a lower cost, entry-level package.

2. Look through the upload speeds offered for each tier of service, and decide how much uploading you plan to do. This speed is the maximum your computer is able to upload or send data to another computer or website. Upload speeds are slower than download speeds, as most users use this function less, and it puts a greater load on the ISP's infrastructure. Speeds in this category usually range from 256 Kbps to a maximum of 2 Mbps. However, some premium FIOS plans offer a combined speed of 35 Mbps. This means your total available upstream and downstream bandwidth is 35 Mbps. If you plan on sending frequent emails with large attachments (such as high-resolution photos), or have an active website you manage, a higher upload speed will be a big-time saver.

3. Check for a monthly data-usage allowance. Some ISPs have instituted a data "cap" that limits users to a certain monthly GB or giga-byte allocation. Heavy users with a shared-home network will need a plan that offers more total data throughput to prevent any overage charges added to their monthly bill.

References

• Technet.Microsoft.com: Fiber-Optic and Satellite Communications